A chilling case has opened in Besançon, France, where Théo Denner, a 25-year-old lumberjack, is on trial for the systematic sexual abuse of 43 young people—mostly boys—over a five-year period.
The Method:
Between 2018 and 2023, Denner created a fake female persona named « Aurélie » on social media. He used this profile to befriend teenagers in his school, social, and professional circles. Gaining their trust, he convinced them to send intimate photos and videos. Once he had the material, the mask came off: he threatened to publicly share the images unless they submitted to sexual encounters with him—in his real identity.
The Victims:
The victims were between 13 and 19 years old at the time (41 boys and 2 girls). Among them, seven adolescents have come forward to accuse him of rape. Investigators found dozens of named files on his devices containing the illicit material.
The Profile:
Denner, who has confessed to the facts, faces up to 20 years in prison. His defense lawyers suggest his actions are linked to « repressed homosexuality. » The trial, expected to last three weeks, will delve into the psychology behind his crimes.
For the victims, many from rural backgrounds, the shame has been devastating. Their lawyer describes them as « devastated by shame, » having complied with demands only under blackmail in an environment often bound by silence.
This case is a stark reminder of the dangers of digital predation and the long-lasting trauma of manipulation and abuse.
Source : Agences
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